Elon Town Council discussed a tax amendment, approved its audit contract, and passed an ordinance for its purchase of property at 112 Orange Dr. The agenda for the meeting stated the property was at 112 Orange St., but this is incorrect. Elon Mayor Emily Sharpe wasn’t present for the meeting. Mayor pro tempore Monti Allison presided over the meeting Feb. 23. 

Old Business 

Elon University has requested a tax amendment to the Land Management Ordinance to allow existing buildings in the Downtown Core and Downtown Periphery districts to be repurposed as small elementary schools with fewer than 50 students. 

The change is intended to permit the conversion of Trollinger House. Planning staff and the Town of Elon Planning Board both recommended approval, noting that the amendment keeps all existing requirements for new school development while creating a clear path for adaptive reuse in downtown. 

The Town Council approved the motion. However, it was met with skepticism from some members.

Council member Quinn Ray said, despite his hesitancy, he thinks it's a good thing.

“The tax amendment and where we stand, this unique situation. But overall, it is short-term,” Ray said. “I think that's the other reason why it feels a little weird on my end. But I think it's a great thing that Elon's doing. I think it's a great thing for the kids. That can be misconstrued with some of my hesitancy.”

Allison also shared his concerns about this new amendment.

“It seems as if what we're doing is we're taking the elementary school ordinance that was created and just creating another option with very little concern about the residents around them,” Allison said. “If you look at that neighborhood, that spot, there are homes all around that that have that property.”

New Business 

State‑level delays between North Carolina and the federal Office of Management and Budget pushed audit deadlines into February. However, the Town of Elon’s contract with accounting firm Cobb Ezekiel Loy & Company ends before the audit can be finished. The council passed a motion unanimously to extend the current agreement with Cobb Ezekiel Loy until March 20, 2026.

Ordinances and Resolutions

The Council passed Budget Amendment eight, which is for $2,740,000 to enable the purchase of the property at 112 Orange Street. This total reflects the remaining balance after the earnest money.

The Council unanimously passed its public nuisance ordinance that was discussed during the Feb. 10th meeting.

Other Items 

Council member Randy Orwig showed his excitement about the upcoming quilting event at Elon Community Church, starting March 5 and ending March 7.

“It just gets bigger every year and better. And I can't tell you enough. It's not just about a quilt. It's about art,” Orwig said.  “ It really is an artistic experience. I hope that people will want to be a part of it.”

Next Meeting

The next town council meeting will be held March 10.